De Martino Ungrafted Cabernet Sauvignon

The winery behind this wine is De Martino, a fourth generation, family run estate founded in 1934 in Isla de Maipo, within Chile’s renowned Maipo Valley. The “Ungrafted” series draws from rare Cabernet Sauvignon vines planted on their original rootstock, a practice rare today, farmed under long standing sustainable protocols. The estate manages around 300 hectares of organically tended vineyards. The vines for the Ungrafted Cabernet grow on an old riverbed terrace with deep gravel soils, shaped by the former course of the Maipo River, ideal conditions for classic Bordeaux varieties. The climate is Mediterranean, softened by Pacific breezes, which helps grapes ripen while retaining freshness and balance.

The 2022 Ungrafted Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. After manual harvest and selection, the grapes are destemmed and fermented in stainless steel, using native yeasts following a cold soak. Post fermentation the wine rests in neutral barrels for a few months before spending about 12 months in large 5,000 litre foudres, allowing gentle ageing that preserves the purity of fruit and terroir expression. On the nose expect deep blackcurrant (cassis), ripe black fruit, violet and subtle graphite or tobacco leaf notes. On the palate the wine is medium bodied with smooth, finely grained tannins, balanced acidity, refined fruit and a long, elegant finish.This Cabernet pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats, game, mature cheeses or even robust pasta dishes, essentially any dish that can stand up to its structured fruit and subtle elegance.